Dear Campus Community
On 16 June, 45 years ago, South African youth bravely decried the educational policies of the apartheid government to impose Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. Tragically, many lost their lives during the national uprisings. Still, despite this tragedy, their actions and sacrifices ignited a new level of consciousness among the nation's youth and ushered in the ultimate liberation of this country. On this auspicious day, we salute their heroism – their courage and insight will forever live on.
As an educator, I am fortunate to witness how you, the youth of this institution, have continued to pick up the baton of bravery passed on by those of yesteryear. The COVID-19 pandemic created what seemed like insurmountable obstacles for many. You have been robbed of loved ones, lost your freedom of movement and have been denied necessary life experiences. Yet, despite these challenging and frightful times we live in, you have found ways to navigate your way to success – completing your academic programme, supporting your peers and communities, as well as finding innovative ways to use technology despite limited resources. I stand in awe of you and assure you that the University of the Western Cape will continue to support you and your endeavours. This university has stared adversity in the face on many occasions and has emerged triumphant because students and staff are united. We fought the tyranny of apartheid, of inequality, and we will fight and overcome this pandemic.
Your achievements, no matter how small they may appear to you, have not gone unnoticed. I want you to stand tall and continue working towards a better future for your country, for your communities and for your families. This pandemic has changed the way you live, but it need not change what greatness lies ahead for you.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Vivienne Lawack
Acting Rector and Vice-Chancellor
On 16 June, 45 years ago, South African youth bravely decried the educational policies of the apartheid government to impose Afrikaans as a medium of instruction. Tragically, many lost their lives during the national uprisings. Still, despite this tragedy, their actions and sacrifices ignited a new level of consciousness among the nation's youth and ushered in the ultimate liberation of this country. On this auspicious day, we salute their heroism – their courage and insight will forever live on.
As an educator, I am fortunate to witness how you, the youth of this institution, have continued to pick up the baton of bravery passed on by those of yesteryear. The COVID-19 pandemic created what seemed like insurmountable obstacles for many. You have been robbed of loved ones, lost your freedom of movement and have been denied necessary life experiences. Yet, despite these challenging and frightful times we live in, you have found ways to navigate your way to success – completing your academic programme, supporting your peers and communities, as well as finding innovative ways to use technology despite limited resources. I stand in awe of you and assure you that the University of the Western Cape will continue to support you and your endeavours. This university has stared adversity in the face on many occasions and has emerged triumphant because students and staff are united. We fought the tyranny of apartheid, of inequality, and we will fight and overcome this pandemic.
Your achievements, no matter how small they may appear to you, have not gone unnoticed. I want you to stand tall and continue working towards a better future for your country, for your communities and for your families. This pandemic has changed the way you live, but it need not change what greatness lies ahead for you.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Vivienne Lawack
Acting Rector and Vice-Chancellor
